FRANKFORT, KENTUCKY (VINnews) – Rep. Thomas Massie, a libertarian-leaning Republican who has repeatedly clashed with President Trump, lost his bid for renomination Tuesday to Trump-endorsed challenger Ed Gallrein in Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District.

With a substantial share of votes counted on primary night, Gallrein led Massie roughly 52% to 48% in unofficial returns from the deeply Republican district in Northern Kentucky, according to early tallies. Prediction markets and late polls had favored Gallrein heading into Election Day.

The contest became the most expensive U.S. House primary in history, with more than $30 million spent — much of it from pro-Israel groups and Trump-aligned outside organizations targeting Massie for his votes against party leadership on spending, foreign aid and other issues. Massie, who relied heavily on small-dollar grassroots donations, had represented the district since winning a 2012 special election.

Gallrein, a retired Navy SEAL, fifth-generation farmer and political newcomer, received Trump’s personal endorsement and campaigned as a loyal “America First” ally who would not obstruct the president’s agenda. Trump recruited him after long-standing tensions with Massie over issues including COVID relief, speaker votes and foreign policy.

Massie’s current term ends Jan. 3, 2027. The winner of the Republican nomination is heavily favored to prevail in the solidly red district in November’s general election against the Democratic nominee.

The outcome highlights President Trump’s continued influence in GOP primaries and marks a significant victory for efforts to consolidate the party behind the president. Massie had positioned himself as an independent conservative voice focused on fiscal restraint, gun rights and limited government.

Results are still being tabulated, and no concession or victory speeches were immediately available.